A man from Bobbington in Staffordshire who is battling leukaemia has helped to raise over £2,700 for Cure Leukaemia, with the help of his local pub.

Michael Bianco, a 53-year-old company Director, is continuing to undergo treatment after being diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in June of last year, but has already helped spearhead some fundraising for charity, as he explains.

“I have lived in Bobbington for about ten years now and my local is The Red Lion,” he says.

“They hold an annual open day and so this year I asked if we could combine that with raising some money for Cure Leukaemia.

“So we organised a Golf Day at The Staffordshire Golf Club, near Wombourne, followed by food at the Red Lion afterwards.

“It was a really good day with great weather and was very well supported.

“It was great that so many people got involved and raised a good amount of money for Cure Leukaemia, and I would like to especially thank Jeremy, Matt, Darren and all the team at The Red Lion, The Staffordshire Golf Club, and everyone else for their support.”

There was obviously strong personal interest in ensuring the day went well for Michael, as he continues to try and make progress in his battle against leukaemia.

But, as a video of the event put together by Phenix Digital shows, he was keen to stay out of the limelight as much as possible!

“There are a few shots of me from the day but I didn’t really want to make it about me, but more about raising money for the charity,” he explains.

“I was diagnosed with leukaemia in June of last year and had a stem cell transplant last November.

“Unfortunately, I am back in at Birmingham again at the moment, and undergoing further treatment which will hopefully bring me back into remission.

“It just goes to show the need for people to continue raising money for this important charity and helping people who are in the same situation.”

One of those supporting the event was Jason Bowers, who was keen to help his good friend raise both funds and awareness for Cure Leukaemia.

“It is unfortunate that leukaemia is a disease that has affected a lot of my friends, and when it is one as close as Michael, it is quite horrific,” said Jason.

“The golf day was about us not only showing our support for Michael, but also for Cure Leukaemia, which is such an important cause.”

Michael is pictured presenting the cheque to staff at the Centre for Clinical Haematology at Birmingham’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital, where he is continuing to receive treatment.